These masks were created in a class taught
at the library on Wednesdays by artist and teacher Adele Karbowski.

First the class looked at masks from
different cultures: Southeast Asian, Northwest Native American,
ancient Greek and Roman, African, and medieval Venice. The
students discussed how masks have different functions: to protect,
disguise, and tell stories. They also show different emotions such as
happiness, fear, and sadness.

The students used pastels to create their
designs in brilliant colors on black paper. In white pastel they drew
the features and lines connecting the eyes, nose and mouth. Several
techniques were used to form the masks. Textures were created
by layering colors and shadows were formed by blending. I think
you would agree that the results were amazing!

Adele is an artist and teacher in Rhode
Island. She has a masters in Art Education and experience teaching
all ages,. You can contact her through email: delljon@aol.com, phone:
401-568-0748, or through the
library.